5 Things You Didn’t Know About “The Show About Nothing”

If Seinfeld is one of your favorite shows, you might think you know everything about it. But there's way more to the story of the "show about nothing", as Jerry Seinfeld plans to tell you in his new Netflix special Jerry Before Seinfeld. But if you still think you're a wise guy, test your Seinfeld knowledge against Kristina Guerrero's list of 5 things you didn't know about the beloved sitcom.

1. Jason Alexander wasn't the first choice for George

It may seem crazy, but Paul Shaffer was actually first chosen for the role of loveable and relatable George Costanza. But the famous late-night bandleader would have had to leave his Late Night with David Letterman gig, where he was a huge part of the creative process.

Other possible George's include Nathan Lane, Steve Buscemi, Danny Devito, and David Alan Grier. But there couldn't be anyone more perfect for the role than Jason Alexander, at least as far as we're concerned.

2. Kramer was actually based on a real person

If you thought Kramer's antics couldn't possibly be real, think again. Jerry's crazy neighbor in the show was based on creator Larry David's real neighbor, Kenny Kramer. Just like in the show, Kramer lived across the hall from David, "borrowing" David's food, and even tried to get the role of Kramer on the show!

But when that didn't work, Kenny Kramer found fame another way: by giving "Kramer's Reality Tours" that let you "live the Seinfeld show" in reality – a plot point so entertaining, you might think it was a storyline in a new episode.

3. The Soup Nazi is Real

We were introduced to him as "The Soup Nazi" and, if you met Larry Thomas today, he might still introduce himself as such. The actor still makes appearances as his strict, soup-serving character and you bet you'll be able to get him say his famous catchphrase. Just don't make him mad, or it's "No soup for you!"

4. Elaine's character was also based off a real person: Larry David's old girlfriend

Taking another note from his real life, Larry David based Elaine on an ex girlfriend he was still friends with. A lot of people think that the ex-becoming-friends dynamic is impossible to maintain, but David and his ex were able to make it work; so he thought the dynamic would be even better (and funnier) when put on display on the show.

5. Festivus for the Rest of Us

Not only do people really celebrate Festivus on December 23rd, the holiday is also recognized by the state of Florida! And if you're looking to get all your holiday gear before Festivus is upon us this year, head to festivuspoles.com to make sure your halls are decked with Festivus spirit.